COVID-19 is on the rise again, and with new variants. Omicron’s first identified case was Dec. 1, 2021. The “variant of concern,” as the CDC calls it, is easily spread. As it is relatively new, not much is known about it. 

The 7-day moving average of daily new cases increased 85.7% from the week before January 5th to the week of. As of Jan. 11, 2021, the US had 254,821 new cases. As of Jan. 11, 2022, the US had 354,161 new cases; meaning we’ve already had 99,340 more cases than about a year ago. There have also been 62,538,796 cases in the last 30 days.

As we make our way through the beginning of a new year, this new variant threatens to return us to mandated masking and virtual learning. 

“As far as COVID-19 this year, I think we all are taking it day by day and making necessary adjustments that are best for our students,” Biology and Anatomy teacher Mrs. Braile said. “Since we are professionals, we do know what is best for our students, whether that is in a virtual, hybrid, or hybrid instructional situation. Taking care of the mental health of our students and ourselves has definitely become a priority now more than ever.” 

We’ve all been able to be a bit more relaxed after a stressful previous year, including the teachers. 

“I have been consistent on how I have addressed COVID-19 this year with the masks and social distancing being optional. I respect student choice for both,” English teacher Mrs. Hickerson says.

We can help to prevent our return to virtual learning by masking and attempting to social distance ourselves as best we can; and even if we do go back to virtual, rest assured our teachers are ready to support us.